Timely reporting is Australia’s best biosecurity tool

As a grower, you’re on the front line. Your day-to-day work means you’re more likely than anyone to spot something unusual. Maybe it’s a strange-looking insect, a pattern of damage on a leaf, or something not quite right with your crops.

If you see anything you don’t recognise, or if something feels off, don’t wait. Report it.

The National Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 is a dedicated number for reporting anything unusual. Calling the number will connect you to the relevant state or territory agency for your location. If you call after business hours, you may be asked to leave a message.

Why early reporting matters

It’s always better to report, even if it’s a false alarm. Reporting can provide reassurance that there is nothing to worry about.

If a new plant pest or disease goes undetected for too long, it can spread. Once it becomes established, it’s much harder and more expensive to manage.

Long-term management can lead to higher production costs or even the loss of an entire industry. That’s why it’s so important to report anything unusual as early as possible.

What to do if you suspect something

If you suspect a plant pest or disease on your property, take the following steps:

• Mark and isolate the area so you can find it again
• Take photos or video of symptoms, pests or damage. If possible, make sure GPS data is attached
• Collect a sample if you can safely do so. Double-bag it and place it in the freezer until biosecurity staff advise next steps
• Minimise movement of people, vehicles or equipment near the affected area
• Clean tools, boots, and clothing that may have come into contact with affected plants or soil
• Do not move or dispose of any plant material unless directed by biosecurity staff.

Most importantly, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 immediately.

What information will you need?

When you report, try to include:

• what you found (pest, symptom or unusual sign)
• where you found it and what crop it was on
• when you noticed it
• how widespread it is
• how it’s affecting the plant or crop
• any photos or videos you’ve taken.

This information helps the biosecurity team assess the situation quickly and accurately.

What happens when you call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline

When you call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881, your report will be categorised based on the information you provide. You may receive a follow-up call to provide further details, or biosecurity staff may request to visit your property.

All reports are investigated, and it is far better to have a false alarm than a failure to identify a serious plant pest or disease. In addition, it can be beneficial to have a well-documented reputation of zero pest or disease incursions, especially for businesses.

Your personal information, including your property details, will be kept confidential.

What happens after a report has been made

If there is a reasonable suspicion that the plant pest or disease you reported is of concern, several activities will be carried out by the state or territory biosecurity agency, known as the lead agency, to further understand the situation.

The lead agency will:

• in consultation with the property owner, carry out trace forward and trace back activities to find out how the pest arrived and where it may have spread
• consult with national stakeholders and industry representatives to coordinate the next steps.

Diagnosis can take time. You may feel uncertain while you wait, but the agency will work with you to minimise disruption and keep you informed.

Your personal information, including your property details, will be kept confidential.

What you can do now

• Use our Farm Biosecurity Action Planner to prepare an on-farm biosecurity plan
• Establish an active pest and disease surveillance program and record the results, even when nothing is found
• Set up record-keeping practices for people, vehicles and equipment moving on and off your property
• Keep the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 handy for all staff to see.

Read more about the plant pest and disease response arrangements under the EPPRD, and visit the Plant Health Australia website for more details on pests and diseases.